Recently registered blind.

Hi
I hope you can help.
I am currently in receipt of DLA at the lower rates in both categories as I was previously registered Partially sighted.
My condition has deteriorated and I was registered blind on 24/02/2014.
I understand that I should now be entitled to increased rates of benefit but, because of all the horror stories I am hearing about the DWP I am very concerned that if I apply for new benefits I could actually lose out as these will have to be made through the new PIP process.
Perhaps you could offer me some advice / guidance.

Thanks

Hi H and welcome to the forum. On the assumption that you are also new to the site, this FAQ should help you find your way around.

Welcome to Benefits and Work

You are correct in saying that any notification of the change in your circumstances would trigger the start of a PIP claim. Our PIP guides should help you with this. It also has a trial self-test to see how you might fare (of course, there is no guarantee that DWP would agree with your self assessment).

Help for PIP claimants

Comment

I'm afraid that I was mistaken in my previous advice.

Only claimants in 'live' PIP areas will trigger PIP claims on reporting a change in circumstances, others will receive DLA forms. This depends on your postcode and details can be found here -

www.gov.uk/government/publications/pip-postcode-map-uk